Bangkok: The victim, who was extorted by Pathum Thani police, requests witness protection. On March 25, Ms. Yuwadee, 29, and Mr. Somchai, 43, a married couple, were allegedly harassed by eight officers from the Special Operations Unit of the Pathum Thani Provincial Police Investigation Division. The group, which included inspectors, deputy inspectors, platoon leaders, and a civilian, reportedly searched their home without allowing them to verify the search warrant. The victims claimed that the officers extorted them, taking gold jewelry, cash, and two mobile phones.

According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Ekkapop Lueangprasert, founder of the "Sai Mai Must Survive" Facebook page, assisted the victims in filing a witness protection request with the Department of Rights and Liberties Protection, Ministry of Justice. He revealed that the police officers and civilian took the victims to the Pathum Thani Provincial Police Investigation Division and demanded 200,000 baht. The officers allegedly accepted two baht weight of gold instead. The victims' complaint was initially rejected by the local government, prompting them to seek help from "Sai Mai Must Survive." Consequently, Mr. Ekkapop helped them file a police report against the involved officers and civilian. Pol. Lt. Gen. Trairong Phiwphan and Pol. Maj. Gen. Peerapol Chotikasetthian facilitated the identification of the nine individuals involved. Eight officers were to report to Thanyaburi Police Station, while an arrest warrant was issued for the civilian. The victims, fearing for their safety due to suspicious vehicles near t heir home, have relocated to Nakhon Nayok province and are seeking witness protection.

Ms. Yuwadee expressed relief after identifying the individuals from photographs, although the civilian's image was initially unavailable. She recounted the lack of recovery for their stolen gold and the unfamiliar vehicles circling her home, causing fear and stress. She emphasized her intent to retrieve the gold and pursue the case without negotiation. Ms. Yuwadee also questioned the legality of their prolonged detention without proper recording of the arrest and interrogation. She thanked the police authorities for their cooperation in ensuring transparency in the investigation.

Mr. Ekkapop highlighted the gravity of charges against the officials, including solicitation of bribes, which could result in severe penalties. He urged legal proceedings under the Criminal Code and Enforced Disappearance Act, questioning the legality of the search and detention procedures.

Mr. Theerayut Kaewsingh of the Department of Rights and Liberties Protection assured that security measures were in place for the victims. The department will determine if the case involves forced disappearance and provide legal remedies and compensation based on the investigation's findings.